Swarm of bees in apple orchard of Whitehouse Farm, Norfolk

We have some special guests on the farm. Last year a swarm of honey bees arrived and settled in a bush in the garden. We contacted a local Norfolk beekeper and she came that evening to catch and box the bees and settle them into a hive at her house. That got us thinking “Wouldn’t it be wonderful to have hives of honey bees here on the farm?”.

This year we have two happy hives of bees. No, three actually. the first colonies have bred so fast that there were enough to start a new colony. How have we learned enough to become beekeepers? We haven’t. A beekeeper from a few miles away is keeping his hives here. But we are keen to learn. When we spotted another swarm, this time in the apple orchard, we were able to learn some more. The humidity had triggered this swarming.

Not only are the bees a constant source of fascination – for us and the guests on holiday in the Granary barn – but they are doing a wonderful job pollinating flowers near and far.

We’ve had a preview taste of the honey harvest to come: gorgeous, and all the more delicious because it has been gathered in the ancient meadows and hedgerows of Whitehouse Farm. There should be enough to share with those enjoying their stay on holiday in this lovely part of Norfolk. Book with us to ‘bee’ sure of that chance!